Women’s football is gaining momentum worldwide, but it’s still rare to find a girl competing on an all-boys team.
For 11-year-old Singaporean Shrina Saravanan, however, that’s exactly where she thrives – on the pitch with her male peers.
Shrina was the only girl, and the only Indian, in the Japanese Shoot Academy squad that competed at the prestigious Gothia Cup in Sweden earlier this year.
The midfielder, who can also play upfront, has also represented her academy in tournaments like the Tokyo Cup, JSSL 7s, and the JSSL League, consistently proving she can match and even outshine her teammates.
Her football journey began at just seven years old. Since then, her silky skills, agility, and sharp instincts have won praise not just from her coaches but from rival teams as well.
Behind the primary five, Greenridge Primary School student’s rising success lies strong family support. Her mother, Sabrina James, 44, a preschool principal, ensures Shrina’s health and happiness come first.
“As her mother, I ensure she consumes enough protein-rich food, eggs, and milk,” Mrs Sabrina said. “I advise her not to focus on victory or defeat but on whether the sport makes her happy. We are not bothered about gender factors – we motivate her only because she loves the sport.”
Her father, Mr Saravanan Elangovan, 46, an RSAF regular, focuses on mental toughness. “I motivate her by giving guidance on being resilient and competitive to succeed among boys,” he said.
Mr Saravanan had spotted his daughter’s fundamental football skills, like passing and ball stopping. He also noticed her attempt to juggle the ball. That was when he sent her to a football class trial. That marked the beginning of this wonderful journey.
Shrina’s ability to play alongside boys wasn’t handed to her – it was earned. Coach Muhammed Husnie Mubarak, 39, who selected her for the team, praised her determination.
“We see her as an inspiration to not just girls but all youngsters,” Mr Husnie said.
Both parents intend to support Shrina’s passion for football by giving her opportunities to train and play regularly.
As she transitions to secondary school, they plan to encourage her to join the school’s football team or take up football as a co-curricular activity so she can train under coaches and build team experience.
They also plan to offer fitness training at home, while attending her football trainings and tournaments. Above all, they wish to guide her in balancing both academics and football so she can enjoy the sport while also maintaining her studies.
Despite being only 11, Shrina already has her sights set high. “I wish to play for the Singapore national team one day,” she said.
Her dream is not just personal – she hopes her journey inspires other girls to take up the sport. “I also want more girls to take up football because the sport teaches you resilience and confidence.”
Shrina’s next challenge will be the Japanese Association Soccer Tournament on Oct 12.
For her, it’s another opportunity to showcase her skills, prove that gender is no barrier in football, and take one more step toward her dream of wearing the national colours.
